Milton Simmons is pictured with the high school diploma he received Friday night, June 11, from Mt. Abram High School after 68 years. With him are his son, retired school teacher Lee Simmons of Readfield (left), daughter, Candace Clark of Strong holding a sentiment from the Maine Legislature, and son, Mike Simmons of New Sharon holding a Certificate of Appreciation from the Citizens of Maine from Governor John Baldacci. (Laura Dunham photo) SALEM — As many as 1,000 people rose to their feet Friday night, June 11 in three standing ovations paying tribute to one of their own, native born Milton Simmons as he accepted his high school diploma after 68 years.

Simmons was escorted into the school gym by military personnel and former Mt. Abram graduates Jack Merrigan with the Navy and Lance Corporal Barry Thorndike with the Marines.

Marching, the some 75 high school seniors and State Representatives Tom Saviello and Jarrod Crockett everyone made their way to the podium where Saviello introduced Simmons who was born in Kingfield in 1918 and entered the military in 1942.

Pfc. Simmons took part in the invasion on Normandy Beach in France with General George Patton in the 90th Infantry Division. From D-Day, we held the line in Normandy until they took the Port of Sherberg, Simmons said. Coming back, Patton led the 3rd Army, of which Simmons was a member, in the invasion of France. A year later Simmons said that after taking France, the First Army “got to hell out of there. We were then transferred to relieve the first Army and from there we fought the Battle of the Bulge for the rest of the war.” Simmons was awarded the Bronze Star for serving beyond the line of duty.

Simmons not only received his diploma from Superintendent Quenten Clark, but received sentiments from the House of Representatives and the Citizens of Maine.

Waving his diploma over his head Simmons thanked everyone for making it possible to finally get his diploma even if it did take 68 years.